VKA 110 Four Ball Tester

The HPM Four Ball Tester (FBT) is a testing device standardized in DIN 51 350 Part 1 and is used to determine welding and metal loads (DIN 51350 Part 2 and 3) as well as different friction and wear characteristics of lubricants (DIN 51 350 Part 4 and 5). The standard test consists of a rotating ball of a ball bearing being pressed onto three similar but immobile balls while applying a load. This testing device is especially common in the lubricant industry where it is used for routine product development and quality control testing. The friction torque can be recorded continuously. Wear is determined by optically measuring the formed calotte.

A separate shear adapter can be used to test the shear strength of lubricants containing polymers according to DIN 51 350 Part 6. Additional tests are possible with numerous special adapters.